A 46-year-old local woman remains hospitalized with severe burns after an unknown assailant approached her from behind and poured a corrosive chemical over her head while she walked near the perimeter of Forsyth Park on Wednesday evening. Authorities are actively investigating the incident, described as a random attack, and have increased patrols in city parks as a precautionary measure.

The victim, identified as Ashley Wasielewski, was strolling along the sidewalk outside the iconic park around 8:16 p.m. after attending a Christmas program at a nearby church. According to accounts from her family and close friend Connor Milam, Wasielewski noticed a shadow approaching quickly from behind. As she turned, the individual doused her with the liquid. Initially mistaking it for water, she soon felt intense burning as the substance reacted with her skin and clothing.

“She was instantly like, ‘Why are you pouring water on me?’ And then her skin started to burn,” Milam recounted to reporters. “She looked down and her pants were starting to burn off her body. She started screaming.” Bystanders rushed to assist, calling emergency services while Wasielewski ran across the street in distress.

Savannah Police Department (SPD) responded promptly, finding the victim in significant pain with visible damage to her clothing. The chemical was potent enough to melt her car key fob in her pocket, according to her son, Westley Wasielewski. She was transported to the Joseph M. Still Burn Center in Augusta for specialized treatment, where she is receiving care for second- and third-degree burns affecting her face, neck, scalp, and upper body.

SPD Chief Lenny B. Gunther addressed the media on Friday, emphasizing the department’s commitment. “Our first priority is the well-being of the victim, and our detectives are working around the clock to determine exactly what happened,” he stated. “While this was a disturbing incident, we want to reassure our community that we are actively investigating and have increased our presence in parks out of an abundance of caution. Right now, we have no evidence that the public faces an ongoing threat.”

Investigators, assisted by the FBI and ATF, are analyzing the substance to identify its composition. Police have released a photo of a person of interest wearing a black hoodie with a cartoon rabbit design, though he is not currently classified as a suspect. Authorities urge anyone in the area at the time, particularly those with photos or videos, to come forward.

Forsyth Park, a 30-acre landmark in Savannah’s historic district known for its majestic fountain, oak trees draped in Spanish moss, and frequent visitors including families, tourists, and locals, has long been considered a safe community space. The attack has shaken residents, prompting discussions on public safety. Savannah Mayor Van Johnson condemned the incident, calling it “absolutely horrific” and affirming that violence has no place in the city.

Wasielewski is described by those close to her as a compassionate individual with no known enemies. Milam highlighted her volunteer work, including preparing care packages with snacks and essentials for homeless individuals and contributing at a local nature center. “She is a friend to everyone,” her son Westley told the Associated Press. “She doesn’t have any enemies.”

A GoFundMe campaign organized by friend Kristen Oddi has raised funds to support Wasielewski’s recovery, which is expected to involve skin grafts, multiple surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing therapy. “Ashley experienced a life-altering tragedy from a malicious and unprovoked chemical assault that resulted in unimaginable pain,” the page reads. Supporters note her determination, with Milam adding that she wants her story shared to aid in identifying the perpetrator and preventing similar incidents.

Chemical assaults, though rare in the U.S. compared to some other countries, draw significant attention due to their lasting impact on victims. Experts note that such substances can cause deep tissue damage, scarring, and psychological trauma. In this case, the random nature amplifies community concern.

Savannah, a coastal city of about 148,000 known for its architecture, tourism, and vibrant squares, rarely sees incidents of this magnitude. Police records indicate no similar recent events locally. Assistant Chief Robert Gavin remarked during a briefing, “I haven’t seen something like this in 31 years.”

As the investigation continues, extra officers patrol parks citywide. Residents like August Lopez, who was nearby that evening, expressed shock. “Just shocking and surprising. I would have never expected it,” she said, noting changes in her routines.

The assailant fled the scene, and no motive has been established. Police believe it was a stranger attack, with nothing taken from the victim.

Wasielewski’s family remains by her side in Augusta, providing updates through friends. Her resilience is a focal point for supporters, who describe her as “fearless” and confident she “will win this fight.”

This incident underscores broader conversations on stranger assaults and public space safety. Advocacy groups for burn survivors emphasize the need for awareness and support services.

Authorities continue canvassing the area and reviewing surveillance footage. Tips can be submitted anonymously.

As Wasielewski begins a long recovery road, the Savannah community rallies with messages of hope and calls for justice.